“In today’s society and climate, now is not the time for us to drop the ball on ensuring that we have Dominican youth present in as many local, regional, and international spaces as possible.” Those were the words of youth speaker, and Founder of WePlanet Inc, Christiana Paul who was addressing the National Youth Rally held at the Windsor Park Stadium recently.
According to her, the future of Dominica depends on the power of young people.
“And just in case the powers that be do drop the ball, it is important that we young people take ownership of our success and the mark that we make on the world, because our voice matters,” Paul encouraged. “Don’t wait for anyone to hand you success or open doors for you. You have the power within to create your own opportunities and shape your future.”
Paul also reflected on excellence, stating that it doesn’t mean perfection, “it means stepping up when it’s hard, it means finding solutions where others see problems,” she said. “It means using your voice to speak up for what’s right, even when no one else does.”
She mentioned that excellence is built upon integrity and true success isn’t just about, “what you achieve, it’s about how you achieve it.”
According to Paul, excellence without integrity is shallow, “but when you hold yourself to a standard of honesty, respect, and consistency you can create something lasting and real.”
“It means doing the right thing even when no one else is watching,” she stated.
Paul believes that integrity is the foundation that gives excellence its strength.
“It’s what earns the respect and trust of others and makes your accomplishment meaningful,” she noted. “When you commit to excellence, commit to integrity as well, because it’s integrity that will carry you forward and make your impact enduring.”
Furthermore, Paul indicated that excellence has no age limit. “It’s not something that happens someday in the future. It’s something that happens right now.”
In fact, she said each youth gathered at the Windsor Park Sports Stadium is already part of something much bigger than themselves, “whether you realize it or not.”
Paul told students that their environment plays a crucial role in nurturing their excellence.
“But so does your attitude, your mindset, and your faith,” she stated.
She stated that young people often feel the pressure to measure their worth or excellence by the most visible talent like singing or dancing or the number of followers or likes on social media.
“But the truth is that excellence is so much broader and deeply [personal]…,” Paul noted. “Everyone’s path is unique and every young person has their own gift to offer. Whether it’s a skill in science, farming, a love for community service, a knack for leadership, the ability to make others laugh, or a creative vision that sees the world differently, every gift matters.”
She encouraged young people to take up space in whatever field or passion that makes them excited.
“So my fellow young Dominicans I say to you, take up space in whatever field or passion that makes you excited and once you’ve done that take up even more space,” she encouraged. “Don’t let comparison or doubt shrink you, your impact is needed exactly as you are with a commitment to being a lifelong learner.”
According to her, learning doesn’t end when school does, asserting“ In fact, true learning extends far beyond those four walls.”
In conclusion, she encouraged the youth to take ownership of their belief and faith in God.
“As you journey through life I want you to also remember the importance of having faith in God,” Paul advised. “I wouldn’t be standing here today without my faith…” Therefore, I encourage you young people to also take ownership of your belief and faith in God.”
She went on to state that, “your journey will have obstacles but remember to always lean on God for guidance.”
this was an excelente speech. very well done. keep on keeping on my dear. you off to a very good start.